Best Midsize Trucks

The Ford Ranger has more strength and durability than most owners will likely ever need in a small, affordable package. A well-rounded feature set and available driver safety systems make it comfortable for daily driving. Configuring the Ranger is easy, with limited trims, cab sizes, and options, and its sole engine is smooth, potent, and economical. The Ranger is a reasonable choice for those who don't need to use their truck all the time or just want one for smaller jobs.

The Honda Ridgeline is an excellent choice for shoppers wanting a pickup truck's versatility without some of the most common drawbacks of ownership. Its unibody frame and independent suspension give the Ridgeline better handling and ride quality than its competitors. The refined cabin features Honda's trademark attention to detail, comfortable seats, standard tech, and good storage. While its below-average towing capacity and lack of four-wheel-drive keep Honda's pickup from matching rivals for sheer rugged strength, it's leagues nicer to drive daily than most.

The Toyota Tacoma is one of the most well-rounded pickups on the market. It's durable enough for hard work and towing, while the interior offers refinement and advanced technology. The bed comes in two lengths, with standard tie-down cleats for strapping down large items. The Tacoma's modular body resembles an off-road racing truck with real all-terrain abilities to match. The crew cab is spacious throughout, but the extended cab's rear seat space is tight, only comfortable for short trips. With its blend of ruggedness and comfort, the Tacoma is a superb choice for many truck shoppers.

The Chevrolet Colorado is a well-rounded midsize truck. It's compact enough to easily maneuver in traffic and parking spaces, while also offering stout hauling capabilities and economical, torquey engines. The off-road trim levels are hard to beat in their technical wizardry. The Colorado does not currently offer a luxury trim level, opting instead to treat its impressive ZR2 as the top-tier trim. Rivals offer more opulent and coddling trims, though that won't matter to many truck buyers. Those looking for a reasonably-priced truck to tow with and do some off-roading should check out the Colorado.

While most midsize trucks have rounded their edges and become sleeker, the Jeep Gladiator has kept the Wrangler's classic squared-off looks. It's an excellent choice for people wanting tons of utility without the added bulk and for people who enjoy off-roading and want extra carrying capacity. The Gladiator's usable bed can haul up to 1,700 pounds, and towing is exceptional. Shoppers can outfit their Jeep with off-road gear like skid plates and all-terrain tires and comfort features like driver safety aids and leather upholstery. It's not as refined to drive on the road as most competitors due to a somewhat vague steering feel and road noise seeping through the soft-top. But as an all-terrain pickup truck, the Gladiator's in a league of its own.

With hauling and towing capacity at the top of its class and a rugged, off-road-friendly chassis, the GMC Canyon is ready for adventure. Its large interior is one of the most spacious in the midsize truck class. Shoppers can choose from three engines, including an economical turbo-diesel. It's this expert blend of small and large truck features that makes the Canyon a great choice. It's more efficient and maneuverable than many full-size trucks while having more space and strength than other trucks in its segment. The top-of-the-line Denali isn't as luxurious as GMC's full-size Sierra 1500 Denali, but it still offers a quiet ride, leather and real wood, and heated/ventilated front seats. Some rivals provide more driver safety aids and more refined cabins, but the Canyon is one of the most well-rounded trucks available.

While not as modern or polished as rivals, the Nissan Frontier is a nice throwback to simpler times. The necessary equipment is there for challenging jobs and rugged trails, like a fully-boxed ladder frame, a stout V6 motor, and tall approach/departure angles. Its interior feels outdated, but it provides excellent usability and outward visibility. Nissan provides three trim levels and two cab sizes for easy configuration. The Frontier's age also shows in its ride, which is rough over uneven surfaces. A next-gen Frontier is right around the corner, but those who seek an older pickup's simplicity with new parts and a generous warranty may find the current truck nearly ideal.